The Wildlife Division has direct responsibility for monitoring the numbers and health of wildlife species, setting population conservation and management objectives, overseeing wildlife habitat restoration and maintenance, and regulating harvest of game animals. The Oregon Conservation Strategy is a key part of the Division.

The Wildlife Division is organized into three key program areas

Conservation Program

Implements the Oregon Conservation Strategy, a blueprint for conservation of the state’s native fish and wildlife and their habitats. The Strategy provides information on at-risk species and habitats, identifies key issues affecting them and recommends actions. Conducts statewide species surveys; coordinates conservation and management of threatened and endangered species; oversees the importation, possession, confinement, transportation and sale of non-native species; performs research projects on the ecological requirements for a variety of non-game species; coordinates with the Marine Resources Program and Nearshore Strategy staff to oversee the health of marine mammals; and develop statewide plans to restore and enhance wildlife populations and habitats to keep wildlife from becoming endangered or threatened.

Game Program

Works with landowners to prevent and reduce wildlife damage to agricultural and timber crops, conducts inventories of game mammals, establishes harvest regulations, conducts hunter surveys, and investigates wildlife diseases.

Habitat Program

Oversees 16 Wildlife Areas that provide valuable habitat for native and migrating species; oversees statewide habitat development, conducts wildlife research projects, provides assistance to landowners for enhancement of private property for the benefit of fish and wildlife, provides technical assistance for the best seed mixtures to use when reseeding lands burned by wildfires, and coordinates with other agencies to address land and water use issues associated with fish and wildlife habitats.

Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? Contact ODFW's Public Service Representative at: odfw.info@state.or.us
Do you want to enter your opinion about a specific issue into the public record? Contact: odfw.comments@state.or.us